Agenda - 03-12-2019 Item 1 - County Commissioners Boards and Commissions – Annual Work Plans Reports

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Additional Items of Interest from NTAAC 7 (1) Connectivity,Multi-Use Paths, and Sidewalks The NTAAC strongly supports the Town of Carrboro's commitment to increasing the connectivity of the community with the creation of multi-use paths and sidewalks to facilitate pedestrian and bicyclist safety, particularly when developing new residential and commercial areas in the Northern Transition Area(NTA). In the past year,the NTAAC: • Continued to advocate for the completion of the Jones Creek Pathway connecting Morris Grove Elementary School with Lake Hogan Farm neighborhood. Currently there is an unpaved,rocky stretch which is difficult to navigate and inaccessible for those with mobility issues. • Strongly supported the Land Use Ordinance connectivity requirements,in lieu of bollards, at the Wyndham Drive connection within 905 &921 Homestead Road Project.NTAAC recommended exploring traffic calming measures. The recommendations were denied. • Participated in several meetings concerning the developments at 610 and 716 Homestead Road near the Lake Hogan Farm Subdivision and strongly recommended that in lieu of two sidewalks (for the interior project),a multi-use path be added to the developments along Homestead Road. The NTAAC's initial recommendations were denied,but the pedestrian and bicyclist safety issues remain acute. Therefore, the NTAAC recommended that the BoA fund a multi-use path on this Northside of Homestead Road. The developer has granted an easement, cleared the trees and shrubs, and residents living in Hogan Farm use this route to bike to downtown Carrboro. The multi-use path on Old NC 86 between Hogan Hills road and Twin Creeks park is a model example. It is used daily by many residents of both Hogan Farm and the NTA neighbors. (Of note,this recommendation to BoA remains pending RE)The NTAAC report has not been presented though submitted to staff 11/7/2019.) (2) Way Findinz Proiect The NTAAC gave feedback on Phase 1 (i.e.,Project Area Analysis)of the Way Finding Project. The Phase 1 report was provided by Axia, a consultant firm hired by the Town of Carrboro. The goal of the project is to provide enhanced and consistent signage to gateway points into Carrboro as well as signage within Carrboro itself. The NTAAC did not have any specific critiques as to the methodology of the analysis as performed,nor object to the general conclusions as presented. The NTAAC reviewed Northern Transition Area(NTA) signage; some is redundant and adds to roadway clutter even if it is required by NCDOT. The NTAAC recommended that directional signage at the intersection of Eubanks Road and Old NC 86 would be helpful,particularly as the area grows and motorists less familiar with that intersection need to ascertain directions to Hillsborough and Carrboro. As to the signage specifics, the NTAAC recommends that there is sufficient contrast for the text to be legible, keeping font and colors in mind. (This recommendation remains pending.) (3) 203 Proiect One member of the NTAAC attended and participated in the community meetings on the 203 Project. The committee would like to receive an update on this project specifically focusing on parking alternatives during the construction period and the plans for the Orange County Library. (4)Proposed FLX Applicant/Develonment at Old NC 86 and Eubanks Roads The NTAAC has been very active in the proposed development and zoning changes within the Northern Transitional Area for many years. In 2011,members attended a two-day charrette, along with other neighbors and citizens. This charrette developed plans and brought forth concerns and interests regarding the development of the property located at the corner of Old NC 86 and Eubanks Road. Members participated in all of the public hearings and meetings for this development and new zoning, offering detailed recommendations. The potential development of this area may have the most significant impacts the NTA has seen in many years. With this in mind, and considering new members on the Committee,we request the BoA and Town staff consider the NTAAC's continual need for better understanding FLX zoning and the impacts it may bring to the area. Respectfully Submitted and Presented by, Amy Jeroloman—Orange County Rep to NTAAC,Current Chair Anahid Vrana—Orange County Rep to NTAAC, Current Vice Chair Deb Rich—Orange County Rep to NTAAC